Summery Herbed Tuna Pasta Salad

The Summery Herbed Tuna Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of freshness and flavor. With the crisp bite of green beans, the delicate flake of tuna, and the aroma of freshly torn basil, this chilled pasta salad delivers summer in every forkful. A zingy white wine vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together, making this a vibrant and wholesome meal you’ll want to make on repeat.

This recipe is not only easy and budget-friendly, but also ideal for meal prep or outdoor gatherings. It’s light yet satisfying, protein-packed yet refreshing — a dish that truly brings together convenience and gourmet taste. Whether you’re prepping lunchboxes or setting out a picnic spread, this salad fits the occasion with elegance and simplicity.

Full Recipe:

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 small shallot, minced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
8 ounces dried farfalle pasta
One 5-ounce can solid white tuna (preferably packed in olive oil), drained
1/2 cup torn fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup thinly sliced celery
1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh chives
2 medium vine-ripened tomatoes, chopped

Directions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced shallot, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Add green beans to the boiling water and cook until crisp-tender, about 3–4 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon, rinse under cold water, then add to the dressing.
Cook the farfalle pasta in the same pot according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and add to the bowl.
Gently fold in the tuna, basil, carrots, celery, chives, and tomatoes.
Toss everything well and season to taste with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: ~380 kcal per serving | Servings: 4

A Fresh Take on Classic Pasta Salad: Summery Herbed Tuna Pasta Salad

When it comes to warm-weather meals, nothing says “easy and refreshing” quite like a well-made pasta salad. The Summery Herbed Tuna Pasta Salad is the embodiment of what a light, nutritious, and flavor-packed meal should be. It’s the kind of dish that feels right at home at a summer picnic, a weekend potluck, or even as a make-ahead weekday lunch. With its bright vinaigrette, crisp vegetables, hearty tuna, and al dente pasta, it hits all the high notes — taste, texture, and nutrition.

Unlike creamy pasta salads that can feel heavy or overly indulgent, this version uses a white wine vinaigrette as the base dressing. It’s a perfect balance of acidity and richness, made complete with aromatic herbs like basil and chives that bring the freshness of a summer garden to your plate. Whether you’re someone looking to eat more seafood, increase your intake of veggies, or just find something that’s easy to prep and delicious to eat, this salad covers all the bases.

Why Tuna Makes This Salad a Protein Powerhouse

Canned tuna often gets underestimated in the world of gourmet cooking, but its versatility and nutrition make it an essential pantry staple. Tuna is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart and brain health. It also has a low fat content, making it a lean protein option.

In this pasta salad, solid white tuna — preferably packed in olive oil — provides not just substance but also an umami flavor that blends beautifully with the herby dressing. The tuna flakes beautifully and pairs naturally with pasta, taking in the dressing while adding its own subtle richness. Choosing a high-quality canned tuna really elevates the dish and brings out its Mediterranean roots.

A Vinaigrette That Transforms the Dish

What truly sets this pasta salad apart is the white wine vinaigrette. Made simply with olive oil, white wine vinegar, and minced shallot, it adds a tangy and slightly sweet profile that contrasts perfectly with the savory notes of the tuna. The vinaigrette also softens the raw crunch of celery and carrots, making every bite both refreshing and balanced.

Unlike mayonnaise-based dressings, this vinaigrette is lighter and healthier, suitable for those who are dairy-free or simply watching their calorie intake. It also holds up better in warmer weather, making the dish ideal for outdoor dining or summer meal prepping.

Vegetable Variety for Crunch and Color

Green beans, carrots, celery, and tomatoes come together to offer a colorful mosaic of textures and flavors. The green beans are blanched to retain their crunch while removing their raw edge, giving the salad an earthy snap. Shredded carrots bring a mild sweetness and vibrant orange hue, while the tomatoes lend juiciness and acidity that burst with every bite.

Chives and basil — both fresh and fragrant — amplify the garden-fresh feel of this dish. These herbs are more than just garnish; they’re integral to the flavor profile. The chives lend a gentle onion note, and the basil introduces a peppery sweetness that instantly evokes the feeling of an herb garden in full bloom.

The Role of Pasta in Balance and Satiety

Farfalle pasta, or “bow-tie” pasta, is used in this salad for its ability to hold up to dressings and mix-ins. Its ridges and folds are excellent for catching bits of vinaigrette, tuna, and chopped herbs, making every forkful exciting. Farfalle also adds a playful visual element to the dish, perfect for when presentation matters as much as flavor.

Since pasta is a carbohydrate, it helps create a sense of satiety, making this salad a full meal in itself. When paired with lean protein and vegetables, it strikes a nutritional balance that works well for both lunch and dinner.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This pasta salad is a dream when it comes to meal prep. It can be made ahead of time, stored in an airtight container, and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. In fact, the flavors continue to meld together as it sits, creating an even tastier experience the next day.

If preparing this salad ahead, consider leaving out the tomatoes and herbs until just before serving to preserve their freshness and avoid any sogginess. Give the salad a quick toss and a sprinkle of extra chives or basil before serving for that fresh, just-made look and feel.

Variations and Substitutions

The flexibility of this salad is one of its strongest points. Here are some creative twists you can apply:

Swap the Pasta: While farfalle is fun and effective, other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini also work well.
Add Cheese: Crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan can introduce a creamy, tangy element.
Switch Proteins: Not a tuna fan? Grilled chicken, canned salmon, or even chickpeas work beautifully as substitutes.
Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Boost the Veggies: Add in cucumbers, radishes, or arugula for more crunch and color.
Make It Spicy: A sprinkle of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño can give this light dish a fiery edge.

Perfect Occasions for Serving This Dish

This salad is ideal for:

Summer BBQs: Light and refreshing, it complements grilled meats and vegetables perfectly.
Potlucks: It’s easy to transport, doesn’t require reheating, and looks fantastic on a serving platter.
Weekday Lunches: Prepped in advance, it’s a grab-and-go meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or nutrition.
Picnics: Because it doesn’t include mayonnaise, this salad is safer for outdoor temperatures.

Pairing Suggestions

If you’re planning a menu around this dish, here are a few pairing ideas:

Drinks: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy sparkling water would complement the acidity of the vinaigrette.
Side Dishes: Think crusty bread, fresh fruit, or a light soup like gazpacho.
Dessert: Follow up with something equally fresh and light, like lemon sorbet or a fruit salad.

Nutritional Overview

While exact values may vary based on brands and ingredient measurements, this salad generally contains:

Calories: Approximately 380–420 per serving
Protein: Around 20–25g from the tuna and pasta combo
Healthy Fats: Thanks to olive oil and tuna packed in oil
Fiber: Comes from veggies and whole grain pasta if used
Low Sugar: Contains no added sugars, just natural sweetness from vegetables

It offers a balanced macronutrient profile that fits well into most dietary plans, whether you’re looking to eat cleaner, lighter, or just enjoy more wholesome meals.

Conclusion: A Salad Worth Celebrating

The Summery Herbed Tuna Pasta Salad is more than just a dish — it’s a celebration of simplicity, seasonal freshness, and thoughtful nutrition. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but elevated enough to serve to guests. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you get a beautiful, flavorful salad that tastes as good as it looks.

Whether you’re making it for your family, preparing it for guests, or simply looking to enjoy a healthier lunch that doesn’t skimp on taste, this salad deserves a spot in your rotation. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and vibrant character make it one of those go-to recipes you’ll return to again and again.